The game version of
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is a clear step above its (still well regarded) forebears. Based on both the book and film of the same name, the game sticks close to the look and feel of the movie wherever it can, while filling in details from the book to ensure a longer playing time. The main difference between this game and the last, apart from the vastly improved graphics, is that you now get to play as Ron and Hermione as well as Harry. What's more, throughout most of the game you can switch between any of the three whenever you like, as the other two follow you around and help out with magic spells should you get into a fight.
Each character has their own special abilities with Harry being a good all-rounder, Hermione being better at spells and Ron having the ability to detect hidden objects. You must decide which skill is most needed at any one time, adding a cool strategic element to the game.
A special bonus for the GameCube version of the game is the ability to link up to the Game Boy Advance version and trade wizard collector cards, as well as take care of your very own owl with a special owl care kit. Together with the new graphics, which are far less cartoony than before and look just like the proper actors from the film, this is definitely the best Harry Potter game yet and is good enough to appeal even to those that don't usually like the little wizard--if such people actually exist. --David Jenkins
